A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Charlotte for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Charlotte?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Charlotte. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Clearwater and Charlotte: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Charlotte?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Clearwater than Charlotte. While Charlotte is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Charlotte is more popular for its big city activities. Clearwater is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Clearwater different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charlotte and Clearwater. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Charlotte?

Clearwater is great for its historical sights. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Clearwater specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Charlotte? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Clearwater has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Clearwater and Charlotte.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is great for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Clearwater. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is terrific for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Clearwater is a very popular vacation destination. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Charlotte?

Both Clearwater and Charlotte are notable shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Charlotte. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte Better for Families?

Clearwater is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Clearwater. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte Better for Couples?

Clearwater is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Clearwater is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte Better for Students?

Charlotte is a good destination for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Charlotte is a good city to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charlotte is a good destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Is Clearwater or Charlotte a more walkable city?

Clearwater and Charlotte both are notable when exploring on foot.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Charlotte is a somewhat walkable place. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Charlotte Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Charlotte?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Charlotte. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Charlotte. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 1-3 days is enough time in Charlotte.

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Charlotte. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Clearwater, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Charlotte. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Clearwater that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Charlotte if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Clearwater.

One day in Clearwater or Charlotte?

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Clearwater. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the growing city of Charlotte, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charlotte, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Clearwater or Charlotte?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the outdoorsy destination of Clearwater. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Charlotte, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Clearwater or Charlotte?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful coastal city of Clearwater. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Charlotte, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Charlotte?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Charlotte is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Charlotte, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Charlotte much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charlotte would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charlotte and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater than you might in Charlotte.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Clearwater Expensive? and Is Charlotte Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Charlotte?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Charlotte, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Charlotte?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Charlotte in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Charlotte. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Charlotte in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Clearwater is generally around the same temperature as Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Charlotte. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Charlotte. Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Charlotte. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Charlotte in the Autumn?

Both Charlotte and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Charlotte in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charlotte. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Charlotte in the Winter?

Both Charlotte and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Charlotte. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Charlotte averages at about 42°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Charlotte. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Charlotte in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Charlotte. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year.

In April, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Charlotte. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Typical Weather for Charlotte and Clearwater